In Paracho, a municipality in the Michoacán mountains, there is a tradition dating back to the 16th century: indigenous hands have painstakingly and perfectly crafted guitars of impressive quality, which have received worldwide recognition.
The Michoacán Tourism Secretariat (Sectur), directed by Roberto Monroy García, announces that this Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) will be dressed up for the occasion with the start of the 50th edition of the National Guitar Fair, which will take place from August 2 to 10.
During those days, the workshops’ doors open to tourists and visitors, and a craft market is held, bringing together artisans from across the region to exhibit everything from textiles, plant fiber figures, pottery, jewelry, and traditional wooden toys. They also include the various types of musical instruments they make, such as violins, mandolins, charangos, requintos, bass guitars, ukuleles, vihuelas, and double basses, to name a few.
In addition, there are exhibitions alluding to the work of luthiers, concerts, popular events, sports games and fireworks, displays of Purépecha music and traditional dances. Competitions are also held for guitar players and makers.
The construction of each of these works can take up to several months because it requires the search and selection of woods, which, due to their grain, sound, beauty, and weight, are different for each part of the instrument. Among the most sought-after woods for their craftsmanship are rosewood, palo escrito, cedar, bird’s eye, and ebony.
Magical Town
While in this Magical Town, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the various tourist attractions, such as Cerrito Pelón, a protected natural area on the Purépecha Plateau, crowned by a chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe.
This place offers spectacular views of Paracho and also has sports facilities and recreational areas.
You can also visit the Casa del Artesano, located next to the Casa de la Cultura. This space houses 45 shops selling handicrafts and guitars made by talented local artisans.
Source: contramuro
